Top 10 Essential Attributes/Expectations of Business Affairs Leaders

A Business Affairs Leader…

Is a Change Agent - Leaders see themselves as agents of change; they’re comfortable with change; they don’t want things to stay the same. Change is the only thing that brings progress, and leaders love progress – it’s one of their primary motivations. Leaders push boundaries to find a better way, meaning they make changes, retire old rules, invent new procedures, and continuously ask, “Why do we do it this way?”

Is Creative - Creativity is the life of an organization and any activity, program or task can be improved using the creative ideas of people. Leaders desire innovation; they know the creative strengths of their staff and provide them opportunities to make a difference.

Is an Excellent Communicator - Communication is everything and every action communicates. Being the recipient of communication is important, but equally or more important is communicating up. Communication is the key to developing group unity, commitment and motivation to work.

Models a Sense of Urgency - Leaders find a way to get quick answers in order to succeed. They know the importance of sustaining and driving daily business results.

Holds Others Accountable - Leaders are willing to have hard conversations to start the growth process for the people under their care.

Recognizes Those Who Deserve It - Leaders know the importance of recognition and are careful in what they reward, because they know that whatever gets rewarded gets done. They reward for results. Leaders have an effective formal recognition program and create a culture of informal ongoing recognition.

Sets Measurable Goals - Leaders add value to the organization and to their leader. What gets measured gets done. Leaders understand the importance of focus.

Identifies, Hires, Develops and Retains Talent - Getting the job done through others makes a person a leader. Leaders surround themselves with other leaders who have complimentary strengths. Leaders develop a ‘deep bench’ for succession management.

Delegates Responsibly – Leaders know that empowerment can only come if they effectively delegate projects and responsibilities to others they trust.

Initiates Action - The number one characteristic of leaders is the ability to make things happen. Leaders take the initiative and love action. Leaders produce.